Stafford Leads Rams to Wild Card Win Despite Finger Scare; X-Rays Negative

Matthew Stafford, a 2025 AP NFL All-Pro, led the Rams to a 34-31 wild-card victory over the Panthers, completing 24 of 42 passes for 304 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Despite hitting his throwing hand in the second quarter, which initially affected his play, X-rays were reportedly negative. Stafford delivered clutch fourth-quarter execution, throwing two decisive touchdowns, including a 19-yard game-winner to Colby Parkinson with 38 seconds left, culminating a 7-play, 71-yard drive. Coach Sean McVay lauded his "MVP type of stuff."